Akaroa Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Akaroa which includes mountains
Akaroa
Akaroa featuring a house
Akaroa featuring swimming and general coastal views as well as a large group of people
Akaroa which includes tranquil scenes

A slice of paradise nestled in an ancient volcanic crater, Akaroa is a treasure trove of attractions.

The rarest of Akaroa's residents are the cute Hector’s dolphins who call the waters of this natural harbour home. Say “kia ora” to them while taking a peek at the magical coves, caves and coastline on an unforgettable cruise or kayak. Back on dry land step inside the town’s heritage-listed buildings, from the days of French and British settlement, to find boutiques and cafés. Beyond the town there are dairy farms, wineries and the winding coastal walk of the Banks Track.

Akaroa Village Inn

Akaroa Village Inn

3 out of 5
81 Beach Road Akaroa Canterbury
The price is AU$164 per night from 24 Nov to 25 Nov
AU$164
24 Nov - 25 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this beach apartment in Akaroa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Akaroa Wharf and Akaroa Lighthouse are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (125 reviews)
Perfect room with a stunning view. Everything was perfect except our unit could do with a new shower head with one that would actually stay on the wall.

Reviewed on 10 Nov 2025

Akaroa Village Inn
Akaroa Criterion Motel

Akaroa Criterion Motel

4.5 out of 5
75 Rue Jolie Akaroa
Fully refundable
The price is AU$193 per night from 30 Nov to 1 Dec
AU$193
30 Nov - 1 Dec
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this motel in Akaroa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (588 reviews)
The place was well situated around restaurants and shops. We were able to walk to the beach and lighthouse without any difficulties. The staff was very friendly.

Reviewed on 13 Nov 2025

Akaroa Criterion Motel
Tresori Motor Lodge

Tresori Motor Lodge

4.5 out of 5
Cnr Rue Jolie & Church St Akaroa
The price is AU$154 per night from 1 Dec to 2 Dec
AU$154
1 Dec - 2 Dec
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this motel in Akaroa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Akaroa Wharf and Akaroa Lighthouse are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (338 reviews)
Very clean and comfortable beds. Close walking distance to all things Akaroa has to offer.

Reviewed on 30 Oct 2025

Tresori Motor Lodge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Akaroa Village Inn

Akaroa Village Inn

3 out of 5
81 Beach Road Akaroa Canterbury
Stay at this beach apartment in Akaroa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Akaroa Wharf and Akaroa Lighthouse are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (125 reviews)
Perfect room with a stunning view. Everything was perfect except our unit could do with a new shower head with one that would actually stay on the wall.

Reviewed on 10 Nov 2025

Akaroa Village Inn
Akaroa on the Beach Apartments

Akaroa on the Beach Apartments

3.5 out of 5
229 Beach Road Akaroa
Stay at this apartment in Akaroa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a garden. Popular attractions Britomart Monument and Akaroa Lighthouse are located ...
Great wee spot, basic but all we needed for a comfortable stay. Clean, tidy, good location, beautiful view!

Reviewed on 30 Dec 2024

Akaroa on the Beach Apartments
Children's Bay Exclusive - Akaroa

Children's Bay Exclusive - Akaroa

Akaroa Canterbury
Stay at this holiday home in Akaroa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and a garden. Popular attractions Artisans Gallery and Akaroa Museum are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (30 reviews)
Weekend with a view
We had a wonderful weekend with family, beautiful views and easy walk into Akaroa.

Reviewed on 13 Apr 2025

Children's Bay Exclusive - Akaroa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Activities

Reviews of Akaroa

4.7
Top destination
5 - Excellent
35
5 - Excellent 78%
4 - Good
6
4 - Good 13%
3 - Okay
4
3 - Okay 9%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

The water was smooth, calm, and beautifully reflective in the evening

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Really enjoyed harbour cruise

5/5 - Excellent

Jenny

Akaroa is a must see if you visit NZ's South Island. The views are amazing. Take a drive up Lighthouse road. The vistas are spectacular!

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller

was particularly looking for a kiwi christmas tree decoration- only one shop had something remote like the kiwi bird - thought shops would have more Christmas decorations. A true French bakery?? The smoked salmon shop was closed

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Can't wait to return. We had a wonderful trip on lake to see the amazing dolphins and other wildlife on the rocks around the lake leading out to the sea. Loved seeing the sheep grazing on the green hills too and the bird calls. Nature at its best

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

The most stunning scenery. Well worth a visit

Cities near Akaroa

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